Christchurch is a chilled-out city full of interesting bars and quirky pop-up establishments – and it’s fabulously foodie and arty. There are certainly more bars than clubs here, and visitors must be prepared for the considerable damage done by the earthquake in 2010. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of decent options for those who want to dance the night away, and the city had been creative with the chaos served upon them. Visitors to Christchurch are bowled over by the city’s positivity and camaraderie post-earthquake, and whilst a lot of the city still sits in ruins, her powerful heartbeat and fighting spirit runs deep.

(£=cheap ££=average £££=expensive)

Bars and clubs in Christchurch

Civil and Naval (££)

16 London Street, Lyttelton, +64 3-328 7206

Nestled in a corner of the trendy Lyttelton area of Christchurch is a smart yet kooky maritime-themed bar that’s increasingly popular with the it-crowd. Mixing cosiness with a generous helping of hip, the bartenders here are immaculate and will serve you a good ale, a glass of something dry and crisp, and as much tapas as you could ever wish to nibble on as you get the evening going in style. Great for breakfast too.

Port Hole (££)

40 London Street, Lyttelton 8082

Another unusual stop-off in pretty Lyttleton is Port Hole – another maritime inspired watering hole located in a shipping container. Yep – you did read that correctly! Enjoy a craft beer or a decent glass of wine and enjoy the cosy novelty of the place. It’s far comfier than it sounds…

Mexicanos (££)

131 Victoria Street, +64 3-365 5330

And if a splash of sangria floats your boat, Mexicanos might be right up your street. Edgy and industrial in its décor, this place is a buzzy spot to start your evening off and you can order tasty quesilladas and burritos to soak up the tequilas if you’re heading out late afterwards.

Select the size of your move to get free quotes

1 Bedroom

2 Bedroom

3+ Bedroom

Events and shows in Christchurch

Christchurch plays host to a broad calendar of music festivals all year round and it’s a great place to be if you like music, wine or food. So that’s everyone, then. The biggest events gravitate around summer time, so plan to book a few events for December to February.

Kaikoura Summer Sounds (££) runs early January and is a fun dance music festival, as is Summerlands (£) – a hip dance music festival with all sorts of camping, glamping and day ticket options starting at as little as little as £25 for a day ticket.

Night craft markets are frequently held throughout the summer months, featuring live music, art installations and vintage stalls to shop at. The 2010 earthquake has served as a potent call to artists all over the city, who collaborate together to help fill ‘the post-demolition void’; the city’s countless pop-up ventures and night craft markets are just a couple of the creative outlets to spring up from the ruins.

Film buffs, budding writers and ardent walkers will all be pleased to find festivals throughout the year In Christchurch that celebrate all these things and more with free activities, screenings and talks to take part in – both during the daytime and in the evening.